Finding “True North”

Finding “True North”

Healthy Habits Make Effective Leaders

Greetings, everyone.  It is eye opening to see the same thing from a different perspective.  If you were interested in a life mate, an automotive vehicle, or a new business, would you look at it from one perspective and say, “I know all I need to know, I’ll take it.”  Usually, one wants to view something from every possible perspective when considering something major in their life. I’m always amazed when someone reads the Bible from only one perspective, sometimes over and over.  While that person will invariably discover new things, because the Bible is Holy Spirit breathed and believers are Holy Spirit led in reading it, how much more would one gain if he or she read the Word of God with an intentional perspective?  People do it all the time when validating what they have accepted as doctrinal statements of faith. So many will simply read over anything that challenges their position and digest everything that supports their current understanding. Only a few just dig into the Word of God to hear what it has to say.

In a previous blog I requested those reading the leadership blog to read the Bible, but to read it again for the first time.  However, this time read it from a leader’s perspective, using the instruction, illustrations, and examples of leaders stronger and weaker for biblical inspiration for personal and organizational leadership and leadership development.  It is eye opening to see the same thing from a different perspective.

Tomorrow we will introduce another book by Stephen R. Covey, a sequel to this one.  But today, I want to introduce you to The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People by Stephen R. Covey.

For this post I want to share with you a taste of a book now about 30 years old.  But the principles taught back then are as fresh and relevant today as when they were first penned.  They were relevant for centuries before, they are relevant now, and will remain relevant into the future.  We call such writings timeless or ageless. Such is the work here and in tomorrow’s book, also.

I want to share this hors d’oeuvres before getting into the promo for the book.  This Henry Ford quote is timely for those choosing to become successful in life, especially as leaders.

“Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t–you’re right.” 

― Henry Ford 

As you read below, it is meant as an enticement to read the book.  Please do not short-change yourself reading a Table of Contents and thinking you have discovered everything this author has to offer.

“Paradigms are powerful because they create the lens through which we see the world… If you want small changes in your life, work on your attitude. But if you want big and primary changes, work on your paradigm.”

Dr. Stephen R. Covey 

The information below is copied from Franklin Covey’s site about his father’s book.  You can read more at the link below and consider other offers he has. Both Stephen Covey and his son, Franklin Covey devote their life to leadership principles and leadership development.

https://www.franklincovey.com/the-7-habits.html

The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People

By Stephen R. Covey

Habit 1: Be Proactive

Achieve extraordinary results by consistently executing their R & I (resourcefulness and initiative) to break through barriers. 

Habit 2: Begin With the End in Mind

Develop an outcome-oriented mindset in every activity they engage in—projects, meetings, presentations, contributions, etc. 

Habit 3: Put First Things First

Eliminate energy and time-wasting tendencies by focusing and executing on the team’s wildly important goals with a weekly planning cadence. 

Habit 4: Think Win-Win

Lead teams that are motivated to perform superbly through a shared expectation and accountability process. 

Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood

Create an atmosphere of helpful give-and-take by taking the time to fully understand issues and give candid and accurate feedback. 

Habit 6: Synergize

Demonstrate innovative problem-solving skills by seeking out differences and new and better alternatives. 

Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw

Tap into the highest and best contribution of everyone on a team by unlocking the total strength, passion, capability, and spirit of each individual. 

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